Automotive State Of The Union podcast

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The Agile Brand with Greg Kihlström®

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#669: It's already time to start planning for the holiday shopping season with Carey Cockrum, Cella by Randstad Digital 28:52

10 päivää sitten28:52

Toista Myöhemmin

Listat

Tykkää

Tykätty

28:52

Retailers are facing a rapidly evolving landscape where consumer expectations, AI advancements, and social media platforms like TikTok are redefining engagement. It feels like the holiday shopping season just ended, but when do retailers start planning for the next one, and some retailers already behind the curve for this season? Joining us today is Carey Cockrum, Director of Consulting at Cella by Randstad Digital, where she helps major brands and marketing teams optimize their strategies with data-driven insights, AI-powered content creation, and cutting-edge retail marketing trends. With the holidays just around the corner, she’s here to share what’s next for retail marketing, campaign optimization, and how brands can stay ahead in a hyper-competitive space. ABOUT CAREY COCKRUM Carey has been a part of the Creative Agency space for nearly 30 years. She has served as Designer, Creative Director, Creative Operations Lead and Agency Lead in both internal and external agencies (big and small). Carey has worked directly with C-suite stakeholders to understand organizational strategies that inform effective creative solutions. She is a bit of a data nerd and loves demonstrating results. Brands she’s supported include Fruit of the Loom, Wendy’s and Humana. In her free time, she enjoys going back to her creative roots through painting and drawing. She also spends her time improving upon the house she lives in today in Southern, MI - inside and out. RESOURCES Catch the future of e-commerce at eTail Boston, August 11-14, 2025. Register now: https://bit.ly/etailboston and use code PARTNER20 for 20% off for retailers and brands Don't Miss MAICON 2025, October 14-16 in Cleveland - the event bringing together the brights minds and leading voices in AI. Use Code AGILE150 for $150 off registration. Go here to register: https://bit.ly/agile150 Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstrom Don't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.show Check out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnow The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company…

Automotive State of The Union

Jaa

Sarjan koti•Feed

Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier don’t just read headlines, they make the most important connections across car dealerships, general retail, tech, and culture. The goal? To help automotive leaders think clearer and move faster in a world that refuses to slow down.
Whether you’re running a rooftop, building a brand, or just trying to keep up with everything shifting in the business of selling cars, this is your regular stop for a shot of news, insight, and a little bit of chaos…always rooted in people-first thinking.
From the showroom to Silicon Valley.
From Wall Street to Main Street.
Paul and Kyle connect the dots, keep it real, and make it make sense.
Learn more at https://www.asotu.com

1038 jaksoa

#Business #Marketing #Automotive #Dealerships #Advertising #Dealer #Sales #Innovation #Auto #Motivation #Daily News #Business News #News #ASOTU #Entrepreneur #Crypto #Auto News

Automotive State of The Union

updated 23 tuntia sitten

Jaa

Sarjan koti•Feed

1038 jaksoa

#Business #Marketing #Automotive #Dealerships #Advertising #Dealer #Sales #Innovation #Auto #Motivation #Daily News #Business News #News #ASOTU #Entrepreneur #Crypto #Auto News

Kaikki jaksot

Automotive State of The Union

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M&A Activity To Increase, Hyundai Simplifies Charging, Back-To-School Tariff Sale 13:01

23 hours sitten13:01

13:01

Shoot us a Text. Episode #1038: Today we’re talking about the expected surge in auto dealership M&A activity, Hyundai’s latest software update that simplifies EV charging across major networks, and Tanger’s decision to launch its back-to-school campaign early in response to ongoing tariff concerns. Show Notes with links: Though Q1 saw a dip in dealership buy-sell activity , The Presidio Group sees the rest of 2025 heating up. With election season uncertainty in the rearview, dealers may be ready to get back to the negotiating table. Q1 had 82 transactions involving 106 dealerships, down from 90 deals and 175 stores last year. Election year uncertainty slowed activity, but momentum is now rebounding with Presidio saying the pipeline is “robust” and expecting strong summer/fall dealmaking. Presidio President George Karolis said that tariffs are adding complexity, especially around brand valuation and sourcing strategies. However, many dealers are already looking past tariffs, and there are more buyers than sellers in the current market. “Certainly, [tariffs have] come up. If anything, maybe we’re buying a little bit of time just to see what happens over the next 90 days before we finalize some transactions,” said Sonic Automotive President Jeff Dyke. Hyundai EV drivers just got a serious charging upgrade . With tighter app integration and support for plug-and-charge at Tesla Superchargers, the Ioniq lineup is catching up to the Tesla standard in user experience. New software upgrades bring MyHyundai app support for Tesla, ChargePoint, EVGo, and Ionna. Plug-and-charge is now available on Ioniq 5, Ioniq 9, and future EVs—just plug in and go. App features include route planning, charger location, and direct in-app payments. Older Hyundai EVs can access Superchargers with an adapter; however the Kona EV is not yet supported. The upgrade aims to make EV charging “as easy as gassing up.” As tariffs loom large, outlet mall giant Tanger is speeding up its seasonal strategy . The company’s early back-to-school campaign kicks off June 1, tapping into consumer concerns over rising prices and potential supply shortfalls. Tanger CEO Stephen Yalof says early shopping means better deals and availability. This year’s campaign targets 10 million TangerClub members with urgent messaging and marks a pivot from last year’s late-July start. Other retailers like Fashion Nova and Beis are also urging pre-tariff purchases. “If they can make decisions early and shop early, then they can take advantage of getting the products they want at the price they want,” said Yalof. Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry. Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/…

Automotive State of The Union

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Ford Slashes Guidance, EVs Grow In Q1, Waymo Plans For Expansion 12:37

2 päivää sitten12:37

12:37

Shoot us a Text. Episode #1037: Today we break down Ford’s Q1 fallout as tariffs cast a $1.5B shadow, electrified vehicles surge to nearly 25% of new-car sales led by hybrids and non-Tesla EVs, and Waymo revs up its driverless ambitions with a new Arizona mega-factory and major city expansion plans. Show Notes with links: Ford is bracing for a bumpy ride in 2025 after revealing a steep Q1 net income drop and pulling its full-year earnings forecast. Mounting tariff costs and factory downtime from SUV redesigns weighed heavily on the automaker’s performance, with more uncertainty ahead. Net income fell 65% to $471M. Ford expects 2025 tariffs to cut profits by $1.5B, despite $1B in planned offsets. CFO says Q1 tariffs cost $200M, mitigated partly by bonded carrier routes through Canada. Ford Pro earned $1.3B (down 56%); Model e lost $849M despite a 15% EV sales bump. CEO Jim Farley: “We are strengthening our underlying business with significantly better quality and our third straight quarter of year-over-year cost improvement, excluding the impact of tariffs.” Electrified vehicles accounted for nearly one in four new-car sales in Q1 2025, as hybrids led the growth and Tesla's dominance continued to wane. Buyers are moving fast—whether driven by rebates, tariffs, or just better options. EV sales hit 750,698 in Q1, up 29.6% YoY, with total electrified market share reaching 24.4%. Hybrids surged 44.1%, capturing 13.3% of all new-car sales, thanks largely to Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, Ford, Lexus, and Kia—who together own 97% of the segment. Tesla’s BEV share dipped to 44.2%, while non-Tesla BEVs jumped 47%. Florida EV sales rose 42.5%, while Texas surged 37.1%, outpacing growth in traditional EV strongholds. “A significant part of it is due to automakers tapping into what drivers want. The 2025 lineup offers 71 unique models (up from 54 in 2025) with improved specs and options for every lifestyle." said Recurrent’s Liz Najman. Waymo is transitioning from test phase to mass production , expanding its ride-hailing footprint while anchoring its future with a high-capacity, AV-focused factory in Arizona. Waymo One now handles 250,000 weekly rides across Phoenix, LA, SF, and Austin with expansions into Atlanta, Miami, and Washington, D.C. planned in 2026 A 239,000-square-foot factory in Mesa, AZ will build thousands of autonomous Jaguars annually, in partnership with Magna. The facility will feature a fully automated line and produce vehicles with Waymo’s latest sixth-gen Driver tech. “The Waymo Driver integration plant in Mesa is the epicenter of our future growth plans,” said Ryan McNamara, Waymo’s VP of operations. Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry. Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/…

Automotive State of The Union

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Warren Buffett Surprise Retirement, Tesla and LiveWire Struggles in Q1 14:51

3 päivää sitten14:51

14:51

Shoot us a Text. Episode #1036: Warren Buffett shocks investors with a surprise retirement announcement, Tesla sweetens the Model Y deal to boost lagging demand, and Harley’s LiveWire hits a wall while the legacy brand keeps the engine running. Show Notes with links: After 60 years of leading Berkshire Hathaway, Warren Buffett has stunned the business world by announcing he will retire as CEO at the end of 2025. Buffett, now 94, made the announcement unceremoniously after nearly five hours of Q&A, stunning a packed stadium into silence. He had not previously disclosed his exact plans—not even to most of the board or Greg Abel, his named successor, who was sitting beside him at the time. Abel has already been managing most of Berkshire’s sprawling empire since 2018, excluding insurance, and is described as a “quick study” with deep operational knowledge and a more involved leadership style. Buffett will stay on as chairman. Investors and analysts widely agree: nobody can replicate Buffett’s investing instincts or the brand equity he brings to the table. “[Abel] would make a huge mistake trying to be Warren Buffett, and he knows that,” said Fidelity’s Will Danoff. Buffett will leave behind a company with 189 operating businesses, $264 billion in stocks, and $348 billion in cash—along with a trust-based leadership culture. Berkshire Hathaway Automotive, one of the group’s largest units, continues to play a key role, contributing 65% of the company's retail revenue in 2022, with over 100 franchises in 10 states. Tesla is offering l ow-interest financing on the new Model Y, signaling that demand isn’t quite where they hoped it would be. New U.S. buyers can now get 1.99% APR or $0 down—a first for the refreshed Model Y. It follows a $2,000 discount offered just last week to early buyers. Despite being Tesla’s best-seller, inventory is building up and wait times are unusually short. Tesla blamed Q1’s weak deliveries on the Model Y changeover, but signs point to broader demand challenges. In Europe and China, things are worse—0% financing is already being offered to move cars. Harley-Davidson’s electric offshoot LiveWire is facing serious headwinds, with sales collapsing and losses piling up—raising real questions about the brand’s future. LiveWire sold just 33 electric motorcycles in Q1, down 72% year-over-year—a staggering drop for a brand once aiming for 100,000 units annually by 2026. The brand earned only $3 million in revenue but posted a $20 million operating loss, meaning it lost about $606,000 per bike. Harley blames a “volatile macroeconomic environment” and consumer hesitation amid economic uncertainty. Meanwhile, Harley-Davidson’s core business weathered the storm, pulling in $1.32 billion in Q1 revenue despite sh Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry. Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/…

Automotive State of The Union

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We Try To Describe What It Feels Like To Give Away A Car 9:13

5 päivää sitten9:13

9:13

Shoot us a Text. On this Saturday that's getting closer and closer to ASOTU CON, Head Writer Chris Reeves joins the show to discuss the upcoming 3(!) car giveaways at ASOTU CON this year. Want to be a part of the action? Join us: www.asotucon.com/tickets Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry. Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/…

Automotive State of The Union

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CA Dealers Target Sony Honda Mobility, Rivian Launches Ad Campaign, Free Burritos For A Cause 14:41

6 päivää sitten14:41

14:41

Shoot us a Text. Episode #1034: Today we dive into a legal showdown brewing in California over Afeela’s sales strategy, Rivian’s new campaign powered by real owners, and Chipotle’s massive burrito giveaway honoring teachers and nurses. Show Notes with links: Just after suing Scout Motors, California dealers are challenging Sony Honda Mobility ’s direct-to-consumer model, questioning its legality under state franchise law. The California New Car Dealers Association (CNCDA) is investigating whether Afeela’s direct online sales circumvent state laws designed to protect franchisees. CNCDA President Brian Maas says if SHM is deemed affiliated with Honda, it must legally use franchise dealers to sell vehicles. The group is also reviewing activity at SHM’s pop-up showrooms, concerned they might function as illegal retail outlets. “Our concern would be alleviated if Sony-Honda decided to have franchise dealers,” said Maas. https://www.autonews.com/rivian/an-rivian-marketing-campaign-0501/ Rivian is leaning into its loyal community with its first national campaign , turning fan stories into fun, feel-good ads. The “Real Rivian Adventures” campaign uses real owner stories to showcase Rivian’s brand values. The first ad features a kid using an R1T’s outlet to power a lemonade stand blender, styled as a spaghetti western. Created by Mojo Supermarket, the campaign is rolling out across streaming and social platforms. It comes ahead of Rivian’s more affordable R2 crossover launch, expected in 2026 at around $45K. “The more inclusive and collaborative we can be… that really is true to who we are,” said VP of Marketing Denise Cherry. Chipotle is giving away 200,000 free burrito e-cards to recognize teachers and healthcare professionals during their national appreciation weeks. 100,000 teachers and 100,000 healthcare workers will be randomly selected to receive free entrée e-cards. Participants must sign up and verify their employment through ID.me to qualify. The giveaway coincides with Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5–9) and National Nurses Week (May 6–12). Chipotle’s Round-Up for Real Change campaign also supports related nonprofits through customer donations. “Teachers and healthcare professionals are such important members of the communities we serve,” said Chris Brandt, chief brand officer Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry. Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/…

Automotive State of The Union

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April Sales Records, Ford Cancels Electrical Architecture, Shoppers Hesitant On AI 16:23

7 päivää sitten16:23

16:23

Shoot us a Text. Episode #1033: Today we’re talking Hyundai and Kia’s red-hot April sales streak, Ford’s surprise retreat from a major software project, and why most consumers still aren’t sold on AI or social shopping tools. Show Notes with links: U.S. shoppers are racing to dealerships to beat rising prices from new import tariffs, driving Hyundai and Kia to record April sales as both brands notch their seventh straight month of year-over-year gains. Hyundai U.S. sales jumped 19% in April, while Kia sales rose 14%. EVs and hybrids continue to shine: Hyundai up 25%, Kia up 21%. Industrywide sales were projected to rise as much as 15% in April, though momentum cooled as the month progressed. U.S. new-vehicle inventory dropped to 2.57M units (61-day supply) in mid-April, down from 2.69M (70 days) at the start of April and 2.8M (81 days) a year ago, per Cox Automotive. “Inventory levels have declined substantially over recent weeks, likely pushing vehicle prices higher. The outlook for new-auto sales from here is more troubling,” said Cox Automotive’s Charles Chesbrough. Ford has canceled its highly anticipated FNV4 electrical architecture project, once billed as key to competing with EV pioneers like Tesla. The move underscores the uphill battle legacy automakers face in modernizing vehicle software. FNV4 aimed to unify software across gas and electric models, cutting costs and boosting update speed. The project was scrapped due to cost overruns and delays, after contributing to nearly $10B in software and EV losses over two years. CEO Jim Farley admitted Ford's current system relies on code from 150 suppliers—creating major barriers to quality and speed. Ford is shifting focus to a California-based skunkworks team developing affordable EVs and advanced software. “The only strategic advantage any company can have is speed,” said Caresoft Global’s Terry Woychowski. New data shows a growing divide in how U.S. consumers view tech-driven shopping . KPMG’s summer 2025 survey suggests widespread hesitation toward AI and social commerce—while Capgemini sees signs of rising adoption, especially among Gen Z. 63% of consumers haven’t used AI shopping tools and don’t plan to, per KPMG; 56% say the same for social shopping. Shoppers say they prefer doing their own research and aren't swayed by online ads—especially when privacy and data usage are involved. In contrast, Capgemini reports nearly 60% of consumers now use generative AI in place of traditional search, and a third shop directly via social media. Gen Z bucks the trend: over half have made purchases via social platforms, and TikTok shoppers spent an average of $708 on the app last year. “The visual nature of fashion makes it a perfect fit for platforms like Instagram and TikTok,” said KPMG’s Sam Ganga, urgin Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry. Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/…

Automotive State of The Union

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The Tariff Offset Explained, GM Recalls V8s, $50K Surprise for the Kids 15:53

8 päivää sitten15:53

15:53

Shoot us a Text. Episode #1032: Today we break down Trump’s new tariff offsets for U.S. automakers, GM’s massive recall of its flagship V-8, and a heartwarming $50K donation from West Herr’s CEO to support local youth. Show Notes with links: President Trump is throwing automakers a bit of a l ifeline on tariffs —but it’s not a free ride. His new executive orders are easing some of the pressure, but only if manufacturers meet some very specific conditions. Automakers who build vehicles in the U.S. can apply for a special reimbursement starting April 3, 2025. That reimbursement is worth 3.75% of the MSRP for the first year, dropping to 2.5% in year two. To qualify for the full break, at least 85% of the vehicle’s parts have to be made in the U.S. or in a country covered by the USMCA. If a vehicle hits 50% U.S. content, the company will only pay tariffs on the remaining 35% instead of the full 50%. Parts themselves are also capped—companies can get reimbursed for components making up to 15% of a vehicle’s value in year one, and 10% in year two. Vehicles and parts must be assembled in the U.S. to qualify, and a new system for applying is expected within 30 days. At a Detroit rally yesterday, President Trump said, “They took in parts from all over the world. I don’t want that. I want them to make their parts here. We gave them a little bit of time before we slaughter them if they don’t do this.” In news that hits close to home, General Motors has issued a voluntary recall of 721,000 6.2-liter V-8 engines due to potential engine seizure , affecting pickups and large SUVs built from March 2021 through May 2024. The issue stems from rod bearing damage caused by sediment and crankshafts with improper dimensions and surface finish. Faulty components were supplied by American Axle & Manufacturing and Questum Macimex. Dealers face backlog challenges as each engine swap takes over 22 hours and requires full replacement engines. GM says inspections will begin first; engines that pass will receive 0W-40 oil, a new filter, cap, and owner’s manual update. “The safety and satisfaction of our customers are the highest priorities for the entire GM team,” said spokesman Bill Grotz. We’ll end the show with a bright spot: During the Depew-Lancaster Boys & Girls Club’s Spring Fundraiser, West Herr President/CEO Scott Bieler made a surprise $50,000 donation through his family foundation. The gift honored Bethanne Hollis, West Herr’s VP of Variable Ops and a club board member. The donation helps offset major funding losses for the club this year. Funds will directly support local youth programs and services. “We are so lucky to have both of these amazing individuals leading the way,” West Herr stat Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry. Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/…

Automotive State of The Union

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Trump Tariff Relief?, GM Argues Driving Data is Public, Boring Online Shopping 23:18

9 päivää sitten23:18

23:18

Shoot us a Text. Episode #1031: Today we’re talking about Trump’s possible easing of auto tariffs ahead of a Michigan trip, GM’s courtroom defense over driver data privacy, and why e-commerce might be losing its edge as shoppers crave more fun and surprise. As he prepares to visit Michigan for the 100-day mark of his second term, President Trump is signaling potential changes that could ease the auto industry’s tariff burdens . The administration is considering adjustments to tariffs on imported auto parts and may exempt automakers from certain steel and aluminum duties. The policy shift, first reported by the Wall Street Journal, appears aimed at supporting domestic manufacturers and suppliers. Proposed changes would address the “stacking” of tariffs—where multiple levies apply to the same imported vehicle—by potentially eliminating overlapping duties. The potential relief follows a joint letter from major automakers, including GM and Toyota, urging the administration to reconsider. “This deal is a major victory for the president’s trade policy,” said Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, “by rewarding companies who manufacture domestically.” General Motors is facing a wave of lawsuits accusing the automaker of secretly collecting and selling drivers’ behavioral data—claims GM is now trying to dismiss with a bold new legal argument. The lawsuits began in March 2024, alleging GM, OnStar, and data firms like LexisNexis shared driver behavior data without proper consent. GM discontinued its Smart Driver program in April 2024 and ended partnerships with LexisNexis and Verisk after public backlash. Now, GM argues the data collection didn’t violate privacy because driving behavior on public roads isn’t protected under privacy laws. “Driving data includes vehicle location, routes, braking events, and speed—all occurring on public thoroughfares,” GM said in its dismissal filing. “Roadways are public, and these behaviors are observed by all,” GM stated, citing precedent that public conduct doesn’t carry a reasonable expectation of privacy. A new study from Criteo reveals that the digital checkout rush might be fading, with consumers craving the discovery and delight of in-store shopping. More than 75% of consumers say e-commerce is functional—but not fun—with 29% calling it a chore. Shoppers miss the thrill of the unexpected: 36% long for the “surprise finds” that often come in-store. A majority find online shopping overwhelming (78%) and lonely (79%), with only half describing it as enjoyable. While data privacy remains a concern, 43% of consumers are open to sharing data for a more tailored experience. Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry. Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/…

Automotive State of The Union

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Shifting Auto Production Not Easy, Ghosn Teaches Leadership, Amazon’s 3rd Party Purchases 15:16

10 päivää sitten15:16

15:16

Shoot us a Text. Episode #1030: Today we’re talking about the real hurdles to moving auto production stateside, catching up with Carlos Ghosn’s new life as a leadership coach (and fugitive), and Amazon’s surprising new experiment that lets shoppers stray beyond its walls. Show Notes with links: A quarter of U.S. automotive assembly capacity sat unused at the end of 2024, suggesting opportunity amid the backdrop of President Trump's tariffs. However, shifting production to underutilized plants is far more complicated than it sounds. Toyota, BMW, and Honda used over 80% of their U.S. production capacity, leaving little room for more output. Automakers like Stellantis, GM, Ford, and Nissan have more idle capacity but face logistical and investment hurdles. Stellantis' Warren Truck Plant has just 17% utilization but can't quickly absorb new models without major investment, despite being able to build related pickups and SUVs. Ford’s Flat Rock Assembly Plant could theoretically take on new models like the Mustang Mach-E, but even the fastest transition would still take six months to a year to execute. Sam Fiorani of AutoForecast Solutions said: "The rhetoric that moving assembly of vehicles into open spaces is easy and quick is not accurate." Five years after his dramatic escape from Japan, former Nissan and Renault CEO Carlos Ghosn is living a quieter life in Lebanon — but remains an international fugitive still shadowed by legal battles. Ghosn lives in a disputed $20M mansion, running executive bootcamps for midlevel managers at a Lebanese university. Despite legal threats from France and Japan, Lebanon’s refusal to extradite its citizens keeps him out of reach. He still denies all accusations, blaming Nissan insiders for orchestrating his downfall to block a deeper Renault-Nissan alliance. Ghosn remains bullish on globalization, calling recent tariff tensions “a joke” against broader interconnected trends. He criticized the post-split struggles of Nissan and Renault: “Nissan is begging for some financial help, and Renault is back to what it was before 1999 — a small European company.” In a surprising pivot from its traditional walled-garden strategy, Amazon is testing a program that lets customers shop directly from third-party brand websites — without leaving its app. Shoppers can either be redirected to brand sites or complete purchases through Amazon’s “Buy for Me” checkout feature. Amazon handles payment transfer securely, while shipping, returns, and customer service stay with the brand. The move allows Amazon to collect deeper shopper data, enhancing ad targeting and product recommendations. Industry experts suggest Amazon is trading short-term sales for long-term insights and stronger ad business. Jason Goldberg of Publicis said: “The bigger share of a custo Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry. Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/…

Automotive State of The Union

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Driving Off-Road Trucks To Make Wishes Come True 15:57

12 päivää sitten15:57

15:57

Shoot us a Text. On this Saturday, Chris Reeves bring Daniel Govaer to the show with him to talk about how Leif Johnson in Texas brought together off-road truck owners - Raptors, Broncos and Rangers - to take part in an off-road rally to benefit Make-A-Wish. You can find out more and donate here: https://www.leifjohnsonford.com/raptor-rally.html Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry. Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/…

Automotive State of The Union

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VinFast Goes Full Franchise, Slate Reveals $20K EV 9:27

13 päivää sitten9:27

9:27

Shoot us a Text. Episode #1028: Today we talk about VinFast ditching direct sales for a full franchise model, Slate launching a no-frills EV pickup that’s shaking things up under $20K, and the growing movement toward skills-based hiring over college degrees. Show Notes with links: VinFast is officially out of the direct-to-consumer game in California, shifting gears to focus solely on franchised dealers across the U.S. The pivot comes as the Vietnamese EV maker wrestles with rising costs, sliding U.S. registrations, and mounting losses. VinFast is closing all 15 of its company-owned California showrooms in favor of a full franchise model. The brand currently has 38 dealer locations either open or on the way across 16 states. U.S. EV registrations dipped to just 367 in Jan–Feb 2025, an 18% year-over-year decline. The VF 8 accounted for 321 of those, while the three-row VF 9 saw just 46. The company posted a $3.18B net loss in 2024; despite revenue growth, operating costs surged. After months of mystery and speculation, Slate, the American EV startup backed by Jeff Bezos, has made its first big move—introducing an all-electric, highly customizable pickup that ditches luxury frills for practicality and affordability. Slate is taking a “clean slate” approach by skipping high-end trims and focusing on accessibility. It will be built in the U.S., comes with over 100 optional accessories, and starts below $20,000 after federal incentives. The flagship model is modular, converting from a 2-seat pickup to a 5-seat SUV with optional flat-pack kit. The interior is stripped-down with HVAC knobs, crank windows and a universal phone mount—your OS, your way. Specs include a 52–84 kWh battery, 150 kW RWD motor, 8-second 0-60, and up to 240 miles range. Slate will sell directly to consumers with a $50 reservation; first deliveries are slated for Q4 2026. CEO Chris Barman says: “The definition of what’s affordable is broken. Slate exists to put the power back in the hands of customers who have been ignored by the auto industry.” Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry. Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/…

Automotive State of The Union

1
Lithia Ready For Tariffs, Carvana Expand Recon Ops, Chipotle Forced Smiles 13:16

14 päivää sitten13:16

13:16

Shoot us a Text. Episode #1027: Lithia leans into affordability while breaking records despite tariffs. Carvana boosts its reconditioning game in Colorado. And Chipotle turns up the charm, teaching 3,800 teams to smile their way to better hospitality. Show Notes with links: While tariffs loom over the auto industry, Lithia Motors is leaning into its diversified strategy and breaking financial records. CEO Bryan DeBoer says the dealership giant is uniquely positioned to ride out the storm. Roughly 45% of Lithia’s inventory isn’t impacted by current tariffs, providing a significant buffer. The company posted a record $9.2 billion in Q1 revenue (up 7.2%) and $211.2 million in net income (up 28%). Lithia’s emphasis on affordability, including older used vehicles, has strengthened its market position. With parts prices rising, DeBoer stressed the importance of matching pricing with competitors like Jiffy Lube and AutoZone, while offering both OEM and aftermarket parts. “With tariffs, we sit quite nicely,” said DeBoer, calling Lithia “probably the most diversified and least impacted” of the major retailers. Carvana is expanding its operational footprint in a big way, bringing inspection and reconditioning (IRC) services to its Colorado Springs ADESA auction site—marking its eighth national Megasite. The new Megasite in Fountain, CO spans 50 acres. It supports both retail recon and wholesale auction needs and will create 100 new jobs. With added IRC capacity, Carvana can offer more inventory and speed up delivery times for local buyers. This move enhances Carvana’s recon and fulfillment network, bringing vehicles to market more efficiently. “This integration will bring a wider selection of vehicles with quick shipping times to local retail customers, and provide a more robust offering for local wholesale customers,” said Brian Boyd, SVP of Inventory. A customer study revealed Chipotle lacked friendliness and cleanliness, especially during peak hours so CEO Scott Boatwright has announced a new hospitality push including smiling staff, cleaner dining areas, and better on-site issue recovery. Every employee is now coached to greet customers with a smile at the tortilla station and end transactions with a heartfelt thank you, reinforcing a culture of warmth without slowing operations. Staff across all 3,800+ restaurants have been trained on “exceptional hospitality” standards. Despite a dip in transactions, Q1 sales were up 6.4% to $2.9 billion—driven by new locations. “The fact is, smiles down the line don’t slow us down,” said Boatwright. Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry. Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/…

Automotive State of The Union

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Dealers Sue Scout, Musk Refocuses on Tesla, AI Meets Retail 15:21

15 päivää sitten15:21

15:21

Shoot us a Text. Episode #1026: California dealers are taking legal action against Scout Motors over its direct-sales model. Elon Musk plans to scale back his government role amid Tesla’s slumping sales. And new code reveals OpenAI may soon integrate Shopify directly into ChatGPT, turning the AI into a full retail assistant. The California New Car Dealers Association is going to court over Scout Motors’ retail strategy, saying the VW-owned startup is sidestepping franchise laws and undercutting the state's dealer network. Dealers claim Scout violates California Vehicle Code Section 11713.3, which bars automakers from bypassing franchised dealers if the brand is affiliated with an existing franchise network. A 2024 amendment clarifies that new EV brands under a legacy OEM must sell through franchised dealers if they share ownership. CNCDA argues that VW can’t legally claim Scout is “independent” when it's wholly owned by Volkswagen AG. The association says VW dealers are being unfairly excluded from selling Scout’s high-demand electric SUVs and pickups, and the lawsuit seeks over $35M in fines, plus a full sales halt and deposit freeze in California. “Illegal competition will harm not only dealers but also the communities and car buyers that they serve,” said CNCDA President Brian Maas. Elon Musk says he’ll scale back his government work next month and refocus on Tesla, where sales are dropping, margins are thinning, and investors are restless. Musk says the “slog” of setting up the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is mostly done, but still plans to spend 40% of his time on it. Tesla stock jumped 5.5% after Musk’s remarks on an earnings call; shares are still down nearly 50% from their December peak. Tesla’s Q1 revenue missed estimates at $19.34B, with auto revenue down 20% and net profit down 71%. Musk reiterated support for lower tariffs but acknowledged Tesla isn't immune to "macro demand for cars," noting that economic uncertainty leads consumers to "pause on doing a major capital purchase like a car." Tesla is on track for a mid-2025 launch of an affordable EV and a June debut of its Austin-based robotaxi fleet. OpenAI is setting the stage for ChatGPT to become a full-fledged shopping assistant, as new code hints at a direct integration with Shopify that could streamline the entire purchase journey—from query to checkout. Code found in ChatGPT’s public web assets includes tags like “buy_now” and “shopify_checkout_url,” suggesting native shopping support. If confirmed, this would allow users to move from query to checkout in seconds—no affiliate links, just direct Shopify-powered transactions. OpenAI’s move mirrors Microsoft’s April launch of the Copilot Merchant Program, which embeds shopping directly into the AI experience. Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry. Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/…

Automotive State of The Union

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Nissan’s Tariff Plan, Working Man’s Cybertruck, Cybercriminals Mimic Google 14:31

16 päivää sitten14:31

14:31

Shoot us a Text. Episode #1025: We cover Nissan’s plan to hold vehicle prices through early June and increase U.S. production in response to tariffs. Plus we examine Tesla’s strategic repositioning of the Cybertruck and how cybercriminals are creating a realistic-looking phishing campaign using Google’s own tools. Show Notes with links: Nissan is staying steady on pricing through June 2 and looking to its underused U.S. factories to soften the blow of auto tariffs. The strategy focuses on affordability and domestic production leverage. Nissan has a 3-month supply of tariff-free vehicles and won’t raise prices yet. The company plans to boost output at Smyrna, TN and Canton, MS plants, all of which operated at half their capacity in 2024. Rogue production will jump by 54% over the next year, adding 60,000 units, while price cuts of $1K on 2025 Rogue and Pathfinder aim to drive demand. Nissan is incentivizing retailers with its April and May dealer volume bonus program, which pays extra cash to stores that meet sales targets. “We count all the cars [toward the sales target], but we only pay on the U.S.-made cars because we want to give [them a] tailwind,” said Nissan Americas Chair Christian Meunier Tesla is quietly shifting the Cybertruck's identity from status symbol to workhorse after early hype faded, trucks stockpiled, and political ties turned divisive. The new approach aims to resonate with a more traditional truck-buying audience. Cybertruck deliveries remain under 50,000; demand has sharply declined with sales dropping 50% in Q1. Tesla updated the product page with rugged, utilitarian imagery, aligning with Ford’s F-150 ads. Sales teams report it’s harder to sell the truck to actual truck buyers; its novelty isn’t enough. "They need to advertise durability. It needs to be used and abused, and all of the capabilities that make it a work truck need to be on full display," said Edmunds' Ivan Drury. Cybercriminals are exploiting Google’s own “Sites” app to run a phishing campaign that convincingly mimics law enforcement subpoenas and bypasses email authentication safeguards. Emails appear from “no-reply@google.com” and claim law enforcement access to your account. Attackers use Google Sites to create convincing portals that evade DKIM checks. DomainKeys Identified Mail (DKIM) authentication is passed since the emails originate from Google’s own infrastructure. Google has acknowledged the issue and is deploying mitigations while encouraging 2FA and passkeys. Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry. Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/…

Automotive State of The Union

1
Top 100 Used Dealers, Tesla Delays Affordability, Sam’s Club Scan and Go 17:39

17 päivää sitten17:39

17:39

Shoot us a Text. Episode #1025: Today we’re talking about how the Top 100 used-car dealers are adapting to a tougher wholesale market, why Tesla is hitting pause on its most affordable Model Y plans yet and what Sam’s Club is doing with checkout. Show Notes with links: The Automotive News Top 100 U.S. Used-Car Dealership Groups list is out—and the big takeaway isn’t just who’s up or down, but how they’re adapting to survive . As competition at auctions grows fiercer, retailers are shifting hard into alternative sourcing strategies. Krause Auto Group posted the biggest leap on the list, jumping 25 spots to No. 67 with a 39% sales increase. Holman (up 24 spots), DARCARS (up 20), and Swickard Auto Group (up 17) also made significant moves, with strategies ranging from better internal competition to expanded certification and F&I offerings. Van Horn Automotive Group, based in Plymouth, Wis., cracked the Top 100 for the first time at No. 69. Roughly half of its monthly used purchases come from auctions; the rest are sourced through service lanes and direct outreach. “We’ve had to readapt... because it’s just not that easy to go to the auction and get 100 cars,” said Brian Wieland, used-car director at Van Horn. Groups represented at ASOTU CON - 98 Holler-Classic, 87 CMA, 71 Russ Darrow, 67 Krause, 48 Rohrman, 28 RML Automotive, 21 Ourisman, 20 Walser, 16 Holman Tesla's long-anticipated push into affordable EV territory is hitting a speed bump. The automaker has delayed the launch of a stripped-down Model Y, codenamed E41, intended to bolster waning sales and broaden its customer base. Production of the lower-cost Model Y in the U.S. is now expected in late 2025 or early 2026, missing earlier targets for this year. Tesla plans to build 250,000 units of the model in the U.S. in 2026. The E41 is designed to cost 20% less to produce than the refreshed Model Y, which currently starts around $49,000. The delay underscores mounting pressure from aging models, increased global tariffs, and reputational challenges linked to Elon Musk’s political activity. Sam’s Club is betting on the future of checkout by putting it into customer’s hands and phones. As part of a major remodel of all 600 locations, the retailer is ditching both traditional and self-checkout lanes in favor of a fully app-powered experience. Every store will adopt the Scan & Go app, eliminating traditional checkout entirely. AI tech will verify purchases, removing the need for receipt checks at exits. One-third of members already use the app, with usage up 50% over three years. Digitally engaged customers shop three times as frequently as those are are not, and spend three times as much Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry. Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/…

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